Fact Check: Are braces painful?

Are Braces Painful?

The claim that braces can be painful is a common concern among individuals considering orthodontic treatment. This article explores the nature of pain associated with braces, examining various sources to understand the extent and management of discomfort experienced by patients.

What We Know

Pain Experience: Research indicates that pain is a common experience following orthodontic procedures, including the placement of braces. A study published in the European Journal of Orthodontics found that pain levels varied significantly among individuals, with some reporting substantial discomfort after procedures like the placement of molar separators 1.
General Discomfort: According to the American Association of Orthodontists, while braces can cause discomfort, most patients experience only mild pain that is temporary. The discomfort arises from the pressure exerted on teeth as they shift into alignment 2.
Duration of Pain: The duration of pain after getting braces typically lasts between three to seven days, with peak discomfort occurring in the first few days after placement or following adjustments 3.
Pain Management: Various strategies exist to manage braces-related pain. These include the use of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, applying cold compresses, and using orthodontic wax to prevent irritation from brackets and wires 4 6 8.
Individual Variation: The level of pain experienced can vary widely among patients. Factors influencing this include individual pain thresholds, the specific orthodontic treatment plan, and the type of braces used 7 10.

Analysis

The sources consulted provide a mix of clinical research and practical advice from orthodontic professionals.

Clinical Studies: The study referenced from PubMed 1 is a peer-reviewed article, which adds credibility to its findings regarding pain variability among patients. However, it is essential to note that individual experiences can differ significantly, and the study's conclusions may not apply universally.
Professional Guidance: The American Association of Orthodontists 2 offers a reliable overview of the typical experiences associated with braces, emphasizing that while discomfort is common, it is generally manageable. This source is credible due to its established authority in the field of orthodontics.
Pain Duration and Management: Articles from dental care websites 3 4 6 8 provide practical insights into pain duration and management strategies. While these sources are informative, they may have a slight bias toward minimizing discomfort to encourage patients to pursue treatment.
Variability in Pain: The variability in pain experiences highlighted in multiple sources 7 10 suggests that while many patients report mild to moderate discomfort, others may have more severe reactions. This variability underscores the importance of personalized consultations with orthodontic professionals.

Overall, while the consensus among sources is that braces can cause discomfort, the degree of pain and its management can differ widely among individuals.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The claim that braces can be painful is supported by a variety of sources indicating that discomfort is a common experience for many patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. Key evidence includes clinical studies demonstrating variability in pain levels among individuals, as well as guidance from authoritative organizations like the American Association of Orthodontists, which acknowledges that while most patients experience only mild pain, discomfort is indeed a typical aspect of getting braces.

However, it is important to note that the degree of pain can vary significantly based on individual factors such as pain thresholds and specific treatment plans. While many patients report manageable discomfort, some may experience more severe pain, highlighting the need for personalized care and consultation with orthodontic professionals.

Additionally, the evidence available is primarily based on self-reported experiences and clinical studies, which may not capture the full spectrum of individual responses to braces. Therefore, while the assertion that braces can be painful is true, the extent of that pain is subjective and can differ widely.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate this information and consider their own circumstances when making decisions about orthodontic treatment.

Sources

Bergius, M. (2002). Experience of pain during an orthodontic procedure. European Journal of Orthodontics. Retrieved from PubMed
American Association of Orthodontists. Do Braces Hurt? Your Guide to Dealing with Orthodontic Pain. Retrieved from AAO
Total Health Dental Care. How Long Does Braces Pain Last? Duration and Treatment Insights. Retrieved from Total Health Dental Care
Clean Teeth Care. The Unspoken Truth: When Will My Braces Stop Hurting? Retrieved from Clean Teeth Care
Spearmint Dental. Braces Discomfort: How to Relieve Pain from Braces. Retrieved from Spearmint Dental
Madison Dental. Do Braces Hurt? Pain Levels, Causes, and How to Reduce Discomfort. Retrieved from Madison Dental
Gavri Orthodontics. Do Braces Hurt? Tips to Manage Pain During Orthodontic Treatment. Retrieved from Gavri Ortho
Brite Orthodontics. How to Get Rid of Braces Pain: These 9 Tips Can Help. Retrieved from Brite Orthodontics
Orthostudio. Managing Pain and Discomfort During Orthodontic Treatment. Retrieved from Orthostudio
Gibas-Stanek, M. (2025). Does the pain experienced during orthodontic treatment and ... European Journal of Orthodontics. Retrieved from Academic OUP